The Watch
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The Futurematic was produced from 1951 to 1958. Its distinguishing feature is a seemingly crownless construction, with no visible way to set the time or wind the movement. Instead of a typical three o'clock crown, the Futurematic features a small wheel on the caseback that's labeled "DON'T LIFT - SLIDE" and can be used to set the time. As a way to emphasize the benefits of a self-winding movement, the Futurematic cannot be manually wound.
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The Futurematic utilizes a calibre 497 with bumper-style winding system, with an oscillating weight that swings bidirectionally through an approximate 190-degree angle. The Futurematic also features a special stop work mechanism that engages the mainspring when approximately six hours of running autonomy remain. That means when the Futurematic is next worn, it will start running again immediately.
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The Glorious Black Gilt Dial has two sub-dials placed symmetrically, a power reserve display at nine o'clock, and a small seconds indicator at three o'clock. Produced in a variety of case metals and dial executions, today's example has a 10k Gold Filled and features a LeCoultre-signed dial, which means it was originally intended for the North American market.
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The Specs
Age: c.1951-1958.
Movement: Automatic, with sub seconds and Power Reserve register.
Calibre: 497.
Timekeeping: Keeping Good time.
Service History: Unknown. Fully Inspected and Regulated July 2024.
Dial: Original JLC Factory Black Gilt Dial.
Case: 10k Gold Filled.
Case Size: 35mm. 44mm length lug-to-lug.
Bezel: Solid.
Water Resistant?: No.
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Original Crystal.
Crown: Original Sliding Crown.
Strap/Bracelet: On a lightly worn Genuine Ostrich Brown Strap with Gold Plated Buckle.
Hands: Original Handset.
Crystal: Original Crystal.
Crown: Original Sliding Crown.
Strap/Bracelet: On a lightly worn Genuine Ostrich Brown Strap with Gold Plated Buckle.
Lug Width: 18mm
Getting Acquainted
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Bits that stand out:
- Beautiful Black Gilt Dial.
- Bumper Movement.
- Made for the North American Market.
- Great Case Size.
-Fancy Lugs.
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Nitty Gritty:
-Light Scratches to Dial.
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Nitty Gritty:
-Light Scratches to Dial.
- Hands are Tarnished.
-Some Tarnishing to the Case, which could polish off but we like the Patina.
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Overall the Futurematic is in nice vintage condition.
The Case has light scratches and markings throughout.
The Handsets are Original. With some Tarnish to hands.
The Crown is Original.
Original Crystal in great order.
The Dial is in lovely nick with some light scratches.
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Photographed on a 7in Wrist
Photographed on a 7in Wrist